Certified Respiratory Therapist or RRT - Respiratory Therapy

About the Role

Minimum Qualifications

• Current certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
• Valid state licensure to practice respiratory therapy in the state where Wagoner Community Hospital is located.
• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program.
• Demonstrated knowledge of respiratory care principles, equipment, and clinical procedures.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a hospital or acute care setting, preferably within a community hospital environment.
• Additional certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and respiratory care documentation software.
• Strong communication and patient education skills to effectively support diverse patient populations.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and participation in respiratory therapy professional organizations.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive respiratory assessments and develop treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
• Administer respiratory therapies including oxygen delivery, aerosolized medications, mechanical ventilation, and airway management.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust treatments accordingly while documenting all care activities accurately in medical records.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care and participate in clinical rounds and case discussions.
• Maintain and troubleshoot respiratory equipment to ensure safety and functionality, adhering to infection control standards.
• Educate patients and their families on respiratory care techniques, disease management, and preventive measures.
• Respond promptly to respiratory emergencies and provide critical care support as needed.

Skills

• The required and preferred skills are integral to delivering effective respiratory care on a daily basis.
• Clinical assessment skills enable the therapist to accurately evaluate patient respiratory status and tailor interventions accordingly.
• Proficiency with respiratory equipment and technology ensures safe and efficient treatment delivery, while troubleshooting skills minimize downtime and enhance patient safety.
• Communication skills facilitate collaboration with healthcare teams and empower patients through education about their conditions and therapies.
• Additionally, familiarity with electronic documentation systems supports accurate record-keeping and compliance with regulatory standards, contributing to overall quality patient care.